Atmospheric research for adaptive optics problems
L.A. Bolbasova, V.P. Lukin
V.E. Zuev Institute of Atmospheric Optics of Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Science, Tomsk, Russia
Keywords: adaptive optics, atmospheric optical turbulence, site testing, measurement methods
Abstract
Adaptive optics (AO) systems are an essential part of large astronomical telescopes and laser complex operating through the atmosphere. Each AO system is individually designed; the requirements for the elements and the capabilities of an AO system are determined by the intensity and distribution of turbulent fluctuations of the air refractive index over the radiation propagation path. In this paper, we overview the techniques and means for measuring and forecasting atmospheric conditions for AO problems, including those developed at IAO SB RAS. The basic principles of atmospheric adaptive optics and the atmospheric parameters used are briefly described. Particular attention is paid to the parameter introduced for estimating usability of AO systems, i.e., the wind speed at a level of 200 hPa; the comparison with the data from foreign astronomical observatories is carried out. The need in atmospheric research for large Russian astronomical observatories is discussed.
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